In a high-stakes patent dispute, a Texas jury has ordered ASUSTeK Computer Inc. to pay $10.5 million for infringing chip technology patents owned by fellow Taiwanese company Force Mos Technology Co. Ltd. The unanimous verdict, delivered in the Eastern District of Texas, follows a five-day legal battle and highlights the intense competition over proprietary components in the tech sector.
The Verdict: Willful Infringement
Jurors found that ASUSTeK integrated Force Mos’ specialized transistor technology into its laptop models without authorization. Even more damaging for ASUSTeK is the jury’s determination that the infringement was willful, potentially exposing the company to enhanced damages and legal complications down the line.
- Patents Involved: U.S. Patent Nos. 7,629,634 and 7,812,409
- Key Technology: Proprietary transistor designs used in integrated circuits
Force Mos, based in New Taipei City, initiated the lawsuit in 2022, alleging ASUSTeK had knowingly deployed its patented tech. The $10.5 million award underscores the substantial risk tech giants face when patent holders take their claims to court.
ASUSTeK’s Defense Falls Short
ASUSTeK’s legal team attempted to undermine the validity of Force Mos’ patents, but the jury was unconvinced. Despite multiple lines of defense, the panel sided with Force Mos, reinforcing the growing importance of patent protection in a market dominated by rapidly evolving chip and component technologies.
Force Mos’ attorneys, led by Dickinson Wright PLLC and Haltom & Doan, expressed satisfaction with the verdict. Attorney Christopher Hanba noted, “We appreciate the jury’s efforts and are pleased they recognized the importance of Force Mos’ intellectual property rights.”
Legal Teams in the Spotlight
- Force Mos Legal Team:
- Dickinson Wright PLLC: Christopher Hanba, Ross Garsson, Michael Saunders, Joshua Jones, Bryan Atkinson, Jordan Garsson, Ariana Pellegrino
- Haltom & Doan: Tron Fu
- ASUSTeK Legal Team:
- Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff LLP: Charles McMahon, Kal Shah, Thomas DaMario, Kathleen Lynch
- Lumens Law Group PLLC: Ziyong (Sean) Li, Li Chen
- Gillam & Smith LLP: Melissa Smith, J. Travis Underwood
While Force Mos is celebrating its victory, ASUSTeK has yet to issue a public statement on the outcome. The company now faces a decision: comply with the verdict, seek a settlement, or file an appeal in an attempt to overturn the judgment.
A Pivotal Moment for Tech Patent Disputes
This ruling signals a warning shot for any company relying on proprietary chip technologies without fully verifying licensing agreements. As the industry’s demand for cutting-edge components grows, patent litigation is likely to intensify—and the ASUSTeK vs. Force Mos showdown sets a clear precedent for how courts may rule.
Key Takeaways:
- Willful Infringement Ruling: Amplifies the legal and financial risks for ASUSTeK.
- Potential for Enhanced Damages: Willfulness can lead to a multiplier on the $10.5M award.
- Industry-Wide Implications: Highlights the vulnerability of tech giants to patent infringement claims, especially in the competitive chip sector.
Looking Ahead
With $10.5 million on the line, ASUSTeK’s next moves could include settlement negotiations, licensing agreements, or a robust appeal. Regardless of its approach, this case underscores the power of well-crafted patents—and the substantial consequences for those who infringe them.
Need Help Navigating Patent Disputes?
At Intellect Partners, we specialize in patent prosecution, infringement analysis, and strategic IP consulting. Whether you’re an established tech giant or a rising startup, our experts can guide you through the complexities of patent law. Contact us today to protect your innovations and stay ahead in the IP battlefield.
